The enormous impact of physics upon health care technology has led the Physics and Biology Faculty at Loyola College to re- evaluate the introductory physics laboratory course for life science majors. A hands-on approach geared towards practical, useful applications of physics is an excellent way to learn the process of doing physics. The project introduces fundamental physics concepts using robot technology, an important area for bioengineering and industry. Through a series of seven "lab projects", each focused on a set of related physical principles, an integrated program on robotics will be taught in coordination with the lectures. The culmination of the course would be the actual construction of four robotic arms and two mobile robots. Basic hardware components form the bulk of the equipment list to allow creativity in design. This approach reflects the belief that the students will develop a deeper appreciation of physics if they first understand how individual components work and later the interconnections necessary for a complex physical system. Combined with the students' natural curiosity in robots, this proposed work will stimulate continued enthusiasm in learning physics. The College will match the award with an equal amount.
